Today we interview Fashion Designer Jo from Nu4U.
Well first we would love to know were you creative as a child Jo?
I have always dabbled. Sketched, painted and I made my own clothes.
Both my parents actively encouraged me.
How would you describe your work?
At the moment, a little bit quirky with a dash of individuality.
How has your work changed and grown since you started?
It's evolving as I evolve as a crafter. I'm working in several mediums simultaneously and discovering that over time, I'm starting to merge them together.
My newer necklaces are probably a good example of that. They combine my previous jewellery making with my basket weaving, recycling and use of natural fibres and seeds.
How did you start selling on Etsy?
A friend suggested it. When she saw my jewellery pieces she suggested Etsy as she thought it married well with my style.
Where does your inspiration come from Jo?
Mother Nature!!! ( LOL ) I know it sounds a bit 'out there', but a lot of the materials I use come from nature. I love taking something and reusing it in an unexpected way.
I enjoy making banana fibre into string or adding blue quondong seeds to my necklaces. Each seed or piece of vine dictates how I use it, so I figure Mother Nature inspires me.
Are there other ways you reduce, reuse and recycle as part of your creative process?
My whole philosophy is to reuse and reinvent.
I try to use recycled material as much as possible in my pieces. If it's not recycled it's made and processed by me using natural materials.
These include pandanus, banana or lamandra into string,
Wonga wonga vine into baskets or included in my necklaces,
blue quondong seeds in necklaces or baskets,
material from silk shirts r dresses into my neck cords and necklaces.
Glass and crystal ware are recycled into table lamps.......I'll even recycle wire and findings for my jewellery if I can.
What's your studio space like?
I have a workshop under the house. I LOVE it, especially now that it's got A/C!!!
What is your favourite thing to make?
LOL - It changes all the time. I enjoy making all the things I sell.
How did your business name come about?
I wanted a name which reflected my philosophy of reusing and recycling materials into useable and new pieces.
During a brainstorming session with a friend and my daughter, my friend came up with 'Nu4U'.
I thanked her by making a special table lamp out of some crystalware.
Where do you see your creative journey taking you in the next 12 months?
I honestly don't know. I'm just enjoying the journey at the moment. I think so long as I can sell enough at any time to pay for my journey, I'll be happy.
Do you have a top tip for others wanting to break into the handmade market?
Love what you do and work from the heart.
Can you describe a typical creative day for you?
Once I am in the zone, I lose track of time, look outside and realise my husband has come home from
work, it's dark, and I can hardly see what I am doing because I haven't been aware enough to turn the lights on.
Do you have a favourite quote?
I have two!
"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes" - Marcel Proust
and
"Be silly, be honest, be kind." - Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Do you like to listen to music while creating?
I actually enjoy listening to birds in our garden.
Do you have a favourite handmade item that you have bought?
Yes, a necklace made locally near where I live.
Where can we find you online?
https://www.facebook.com/Nu4Ufashionandhomedecor
https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/Nu4UDesigns
How long have you been a member of BrisSyle?
I joined in the middle of 2016, so I am still a new member,
How did you find out about BrisStyle?
By doing an online search for nearby markets and groups.
Why do you craft Jo?
It has always been my therapy where I can tune out.
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